Editors' Pick

The Diplomacy Cable 11/7/2016

The Diplomacy Cable

With the invention of the telegraph cables in the 19th century, international consulates and embassies began sending shorter encrypted telegrams, using Morse Code. While the messages are now sent electronically, the moniker “cable” stuck and the term is still in use today for shorter, encrypted diplomatic messages.

 

North Korea’s Nuclear Threat

According to US News, “North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is said to be plotting an ‘Election Day spectacular’ –another missile launch.” This threat has put South Korea’s military on high alert with the looming threat timed with the U.S. presidential election.

Possible Corruption in South Africa

A recent investigation found evidence suggestions corruption under South Africa’s President Jacob Zuma. According to BBC, “Mr. Zuma is accused of an improper relationship with wealthy businessmen.” Mr. Zuma attempted to block the report’s release, but ultimately dropped his request to the court.

Fifa’s Poppy Stance

Fifa’s refusal to allow players representing England and Scotland wear poppy armbands has come under fire from Prime Minister Theresa May, reports BBC. According to Mrs. May, “Our football players want to recognize and respect those who have given their lives for our safety and security – I think it is absolutely right they should be able to do so.”

Egyptian Currency Devalued

Egypt’s Central bank has devalued their currency by 48% in order to meet a demand by the International Monetary Fund in exchange for a $13 billion loan over the next three hours. According to Aljazeera, The IMF’s executive board has yet to ratify the loan.

Colombian State Visit to Northern Ireland

During his first state visit to the United Kingdom, President Juan Manuel Santos of Colombia made a stop in Belfast to meet with Arlene Foster and Martin McGuinness, First Minister and Deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland respectively. President Santos was inspired by the Northern Ireland peace process when creating a peace deal for his own country, a process which Northern Irish politicians have also contributed to according to the Belfast Telegraph.

 

Diplomacy Fast Facts:

How dangerous is it to be a Foreign Service Officer?

Over 7 ambassadors and dozens of Foreign Service Officers have been killed in the line of duty.

Patricia Mace is a second semester graduate student at Seton Hall University. She is currently pursuing her dual master’s degrees in Diplomacy and International Relations and Strategic Communications. She received her undergraduate degrees from University of Delaware.

Erin Dobbs is a second year graduate student at Seton Hall University. She is pursuing her master’s degree in diplomacy and international relations with specializations in foreign policy analysis and global negotiation and conflict management. She received her undergraduate degree in political science and history from Villanova University.

Follow the Journal of Diplomacy on Twitter at @JournalofDiplo

Share

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *